day rule
/ˈdeɪ ruːl/Law. Now historical
noun
A rule or order of court, authorizing a prisoner to leave prison for one day. Compare earlier day writ.
- Used especially with reference to debtors held in the Fleet and King's Bench prisons in London. The practice was abolished in 1842..
Origin
Late 17th century; earliest use found in General Considerations Bill regulating Abuses of Prisons. From day + rule.